Professional Publications Commentary

We always tell kids about the skills that great readers possess.  We try to teach them to reflect upon their readings as they go, to make connections with their readings, to ask questions, to infer and predict, etc.  I wouldn't normally do any of that, preferring rather to enjoy the book than make it into an academic project, but it could be useful to reflect on some professional volumes and relate them to my own teaching experiences.  In this, I continually develop my educational philosophy and keep myself open to new ideas and differing opinions.

There's No Busyness Like School Busyness

​This book is a compilation of my own educational theory, personal experiences, and inspiration to the classroom teacher of today.  How do you face the world of education?  How do you pick yourself up when things go wrong?  How do you confront new misunderstandings and strict administration?  It takes busyness to succeed in this career.  Check it out and order your own at D. Ed. Hoggatt, Author.

Lead Like a Pirate

Teach Like a Pirate

The Essential 55

This book was my introduction to Ron Clark's philosophy.  I had already seen Ron on Disney's American Teacher Awards (the same year I was nominated for the same award), and I had already followed his career for a little while, but it was eye-opening to read about how specific his 55 rules are.

The End of Molasses Classes

In the next book by Mr. Clark, he shares some terrific stories to help the educator see the possibilities of changing things up and resisting stagnation in the classroom.  I adapted some of his methods to my own personality, and still use them in my room.  This is the book I read just before my visit to the Ron Clark Academy in 2012.

Positive Classroom Discipline

One of the best classes I took for my Master's Degree was one that used this volume from Fredric Jones.  Positive Classroom Discipline explains a useful process in dealing with disruptive and even defiant behavior.  I highly recommend this book

Positive Classroom Instruction

I purchased the Positive Classroom Instruction book after loving Fredric Jones' first book.  In this one, Mr. Jones explains how to deal with children who think they can't do things.  He writes about how to positively help students without giving away the farm.